Promotional literature for the state of Minnesota including pictures and maps in 1870

Description

As the bulk of western settlers sought locations farther west following the American Civil War, some states, like Minnesota, began to promote the beneficial aspects of living in their area. This database is a promotional tract produced by some businessmen in the state and seeks to draw more immigrants and settlers to the area. It provides detailed descriptions of the counties and towns of the state, business opportunities, social advantages and weather patterns. For those seeking to understand the larger context in which their ancestors lived, this can be a helpful narrative.

Extended Description

Minnesota as it is in 1870 is a detailed piece of promotional literature intended to attract settlers to the state of Minnesota. It is typical of many such publications that circulated during this period of Minnesota's development. The book is divided into two parts. The first part covers the state as a whole, and is a positive, statistical overview of Minnesota. It offers description and data such as the geographical size of the state, the population and national background of its inhabitants, the weather and climate benefits for persons suffering from consumption (tuberculosis), a theme repeated in other promotional works, and information about agricultural advances. This section also cites increased livestock production, cultivated land, developed forest industries and resources, education, and commercial promise as inducements to immigrants. The second part of the book provides a description of each county that had been established in Minnesota by 1870.